Peru Accepts 7 Recommendations for Children in street situations

Last week, the final report of Peru's Universal Periodic Review (UPR) at the United Nations in Geneva was adopted. In collaboration with its local partner, Qosqo Maki, FAAI submitted a report to shed light on the rights violations experienced by children in street situations. Despite being a growing problem in Peru, the issue of Peruvian children in street situations had never been addressed with recommendations by the United Nations.

Upholding children's rights at the United Nations:

The FAAI advocates for the rights of children in street situations in various countries and actively participates in UN mechanisms to enforce their rights. The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) is a process that examines human rights situations in all UN member states. During this review, recommendations are issued by other states every five years to improve the respect for human rights. Once accepted by the concerned state, these recommendations must be implemented within the given timeframe to address the identified issues. The involvement of civil society actors is vital as it provides concrete insights to states regarding necessary improvements.

A report made by and for children in street situations:

Last November, we presented our findings and recommendations in favour of the rights of children in street situations at the pre-session that brings together civil society and diplomats. Throughout the week, our advocacy team engaged in discussions with over 20 Permanent Missions to raise awareness about this expanding problem and enhance the visibility of FAAI and its initiatives.

The report, developed with the active involvement of young individuals supported by Qosqo Maki, aimed to make these young people visible and accurately represent the complex reality they face on a daily basis. It urged the Peruvian government to establish a national strategy for children in street situations, ensuring their access to medical care, protection against violence and discrimination, and facilitating educational opportunities through scholarships.

Final adoption

For the first time, Peru has now received 7 recommendations concerning the rights of children in street situations! The Peruvian government has committed to implementing these recommendations within the next five years. We take pride in advocating for these recommendations and amplifying the voices of Peruvian youth alongside our partner. Every child deserves full access to their rights!

List of full recommendations:

• Enhance implementation of the National Multisectoral Policy for Children and Adolescents with a special focus on removing lingering barriers to access to quality education, including technical and vocational training, and to health and other basic social services by children in street situations and redoubling efforts to combat discrimination against children from vulnerable communities, particularly Indigenous children and those with special needs (Philippines)
• Step up efforts to develop and implement a comprehensive national policy for the protection of the rights of street children, through a multidimensional approach that takes into account their best interests and guarantees their access to health and education (Uruguay)
• Develop an integrated national action plan on the promotion and protection of street children and adolescents, including through their participation in local decision-making institutions (Angola)
• Develop a comprehensive national policy to prevent children and adolescents from falling into a street situation and reverse the situation of those who are currently in that situation, and guarantee them inclusive school education, protection against discrimination, violence and harassment, and necessary and adapted medical care (Costa Rica)
• Develop and implement a comprehensive national strategy for children in street situations with an allocated budget, and ensure the participation of such children in the development thereof (Croatia)
• Promote forms of education, including community, technical and professional education, adapted to the realities of children and adolescents living on the streets (Greece)
• Support efforts to increase the number of social workers who specialize in helping children on the street and protecting them from violence, hunger and exploitation (Gambia)